‘Mystical Chocolate Masquerade’ set for April – West Hawaii Today

It’s glitz, glam and glorious fun for
the “Mystical Chocolate Masquerade” at the
11h Big Island Chocolate Festival, April 26-27, at the Waikoloa
Beach Marriott Resort &Spa.

Attendees are encouraged to dress their best for the Saturday night gala.

Fancy costumes and masks are encouraged.

The annual, two-day festival offers chocolate-themed culinary demonstrations for the home cook, cacao growing and processing seminars by industry experts, a farm tour and a festive evening gala with savory and sweet culinary booths, chocolate fountain, entertainment, dancing and a silent auction.

Guests can enjoy unlimited wine, beer, special edition Ola Brew chocolate seltzer and beer, iced tea and coffee.

The gala also offers VIP seating, with two specially curated drinks paired with pupus.

At the gala, a panel of invited judges and attendees will again critique chef and confectionery offerings, while culinary stations will vie in a contest for Best Booth decorated to this year’s raucous theme.

A photo booth will stage fun, playful props for selfies.

In its 11th year, the celebration of chocolate is presented by the nonprofit Kona Cacao Association.

This year’s beneficiaries include Hawaii Institute of Pacific Agriculture, Kona Dance &Performing Arts and Hawaii Keiki Museum.

A general admission gala ticket is $99; VIP tickets are $169.

Also available are specially priced event room packages at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.

Educational activities and prices will be announced on the website.

All event tickets are sold online,and additional tax and ticketing fees apply.

Visit bigislandchocolatefestival.com for more information.

The mission and goal of KCA is to promote the cacao industry on the Hawaii Island by presenting the Big Island Chocolate Festival as an educational and outreach opportunity for local cacao farmers, the hospitality industry and cacao enthusiasts.

Visit konacacaoassociation.com.